Because DL is referring to "in the past" as in over and done with...and not interested.

The past is also yesterday or any day before that. It could be our deal they are talking about. Maybe they made an offer for a buyout and Elmer's expectations were considered too high.

The fact that they are still talking about an earn-back position doesn't mean that they didn't try a buyout but couldn't reach a good price for both parties.